A soldier’s day is filled with challenges and hardships. When they’re away from home, entertainment can serve as a much-needed reprieve from their harsh reality. But how the troops have kept themselves occupied has changed over the decades. From games to shows, we often wonder what activities the troops turned to for leisure. Today, we’ll take a trip through the past as we examine the different types of entertainment that soldiers turned to throughout historical periods.
Ancient Times
Gladiator games were a major part of soldiers’ entertainment in ancient times. These games allowed soldiers to show off their combat skills, and challenges and duals showed off who was the bravest.
Racing was another way they kept entertained. Some soldiers would have friendly competitions running on foot, and others would seek enjoyment by spectating chariot races.
Of course, they didn’t want to be on the go 24/7. When soldiers from ancient times were unwinding, they would find solace through storytelling. It was common for these men to share folklore and tales of heroes from their past.
When they weren’t telling stories, they would make music together. Music and dance were a staple of ancient culture.
Medieval Period
The tradition of music and dance continued throughout the medieval period. The soldiers loved local songs and found joy in folk dancing. They would also find entertainment through travelling performers, whether it be a musical act, comedy, or dramatic arts.
Combat tournaments were another big source of entertainment, whether the soldiers participated in one or enjoyed the show from the sidelines. They served as an exciting way to showcase their skills, from melee to archery and everything in between.
In this period, technology was non-existent. Soldiers would pass the time in the company of each other and locals. Feasts, banquets, and other social gatherings were a way for people to enjoy the night. In general, entertainment consisted of the following:
- Music and dance remained popular
- Travelling performers
- Combat tournaments
- Social gatherings like feasts and banquets
18th and 19th Century Soldiers
By the 18th and 19th centuries, soldiers had more entertainment options. Many would write home and spend their downtime reading newspapers from their local area. They valued keeping in touch with their loved ones from afar in any way they could.
But they also passed the time by having fun and bonding with each other. Like soldiers of the past, they could find enjoyment by watching travelling acts and going to the theatre. Music was another entertainment staple, whether they were watching a live show or simply playing folk tunes together.
During this period, games started to become more prevalent. Card games were the most common way for soldiers to have fun and keep their minds sharp. Poker and other forms of gambling became a popular pastime.
Physical activity was also very important to these soldiers, who wanted to stay in good shape. Wrestling and boxing became very popular during this time. Troops could stay active and seek enjoyment from challenging each other.
Soldiers From World War Periods
Gambling was a big part of how soldiers from the World War I period kept themselves entertained. Card games, dice, and other games brought enjoyment to the table when these men needed a break from reality. A little friendly competition and some money on the line boosted their thrills.
Sports were another way they passed the time. Games like cricket, baseball, and soccer brought them together and kept them active. During this time, they also took part in activities hosted by recreational clubs. Anything that kept them active and social helped them momentarily break away from the trenches.
Of course, a reminder of who they were fighting for also brought solace to the troops. During this era, many soldiers had a writing kit. In this, they kept an address book and supplies to write back home. They always looked forward to receiving a postcard or a handwritten letter from a loved one.
Live entertainment served a greater purpose during this era. Performers began to host specialty live shows specifically for the troops. Musical acts, comedy shows, and other acts were performed live for these soldiers. By World War II, USO shows brought well-known celebrities out to perform for the troops.
Troops of the Modern Era
Technology plays a big role in how troops stay entertained today. Mobile devices allow them to stay in touch with loved ones back home. Texting, audio calls, and video calls allow them to keep connected on a daily basis. They can also use social media to stay in touch with friends and in the loop on what’s happening around the world.
This also presents more entertainment options for when they want to unwind. They can use streaming apps to download books or watch movies and TV series. There are also more gaming options, especially for online casino enthusiasts. Even though in our highly developed digital era, soldiers put their phones into avia mode to prevent tracking, they can still play games online because the downloaded game is available to them anytime, anywhere. Anyone can check out Slotozilla’s list of no deposit casino bonus promotions to play for free. These deals allow modern soldiers and other casino users to try games without risking their own money. Any winnings earned can provide real value. They also give players a chance to try different game mechanics and strategies.
Military bases have also improved greatly over the years, giving troops options to participate in a variety of activities. Many of them have a gym on-site where the soldiers can use machines to work out and enjoy sports like basketball and volleyball.
It’s also common for these facilities to have libraries, TVs, and other ways for the members to unwind. Some even host workshops for activities like woodworking, photography, or crafts. Different hobbies are introduced to keep things fun and help the soldier unwind.
Final Thoughts
Throughout history, entertainment has been an important way to help soldiers unwind. Although entertainment options for soldiers have progressed throughout the years, the main objective has remained the same: to help them recharge and bond with each other.
Sports, music, and gambling games have all been key ways that the troops have enjoyed their downtime. Community events also play a key role in helping them connect and celebrate their efforts.
Born and raised in Bozeman, Montana, he graduated from George State University with an MBA in Actuarial Science. His hobbies include beach volleyball, hiking, fishing, and lifting weights
George is also a certified nutritionist with a passion for health and fitness.